Page:Works of Voltaire Volume 36.djvu/199

Rh And straight by order of the state, Was registered on brass by fate. That moment in the shades below, They anvils beat, and bellows blow; Tisiphone the blacksmith's trade Well understood, the locks she made. Proserpina, from Pluto's hand Receiving, wore it by command. Sometimes the hardest hearts relent, Even Pluto's self some pity felt, When spouse's virtue he made fast, And said, "you'll now perforce be chaste." This lock which hell could frame alone, Soon to the human race was known; In Venice, Rome, and all about it, No gentleman or cit's without it; 'Tis always thought a method sure, All female honor to secure. There husbands, though some sneerers mock, Keep virtue safe and under lock. But now to bring the matter home, Your spouse, you know, lived long at Rome; With bad men few infection 'scape, He has learned the Roman modes to ape. But all his jealous care is vain, Love always knows his ends to gain; That god will sure espouse our cause, He still protects who keeps his laws; For you have given me your heart, And can't refuse me any part. Vol. 36—12